Since composites were first used on secondary structures in military aircraft around forty years ago, there has been a gradual expansion in their usage, into new market segments (commercial aircraft, helicopters) and alternative structures (airframes, fuselage, rotor blades). Visiongain has determined that the value of the global aerospace composites market in 2012 will reach $10.3bn.

The adoption of composites materials as replacement for traditional component materials, driven in part by a desire to reduce aircraft fuel and maintenance costs, was most evident with the introduction of the new Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Made using more than 50% of composite materials, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner looks set to be one of the fastest selling commercial aircraft in history and its development has set a new standard in aircraft design, something which other OEM's have taken account of by integrating significant amounts of composite materials into their new aircraft. With global demand for air travel opening up new opportunities for aviation, manufacturers are keen to exploit the advantage offered by composites.

What makes this report unique?

Visiongain consulted widely with industry experts and full transcripts from these exclusive interviews are included in the report. As such, our reports have a unique blend of primary and secondary sources providing informed opinion. This approach allows insight into the key drivers and restraints behind contract and programme developments, as well as identifying the leading companies. The report also presents a unique blend of qualitative analysis combined with extensive quantitative data including global, submarket and regional markets forecasts from 2012-2022 - all highlighting strategic business opportunities.

5. SWOT Analysis of the Aerospace Composites Market 2012-20225.1 StrengthsÂ 5.1.1 High Strength per Weight makes Composites Attractive for Aerospace5.1.2 The Benefits of Being Light Weight5.2 Weaknesses5.2.1 Cost of Production5.2.2 Difficulties in Recycling5.3 Opportunities5.3.1 Mass Production5.3.2 Characteristics of Composites5.4 Threats5.4.1 Lack of Understanding of Composites in Long Term Use

Composite materials in aerospace are used primarily because they have higher strength to weight ratio than metals. Thus, they help save fuel and also aid to decrease the harmful fuel emissions. The various ...